March 16, 2021
The King of the Jews
These sections of the law focus on relationships, expanding on the eighth and ninth commandments. Deuteronomy 24 begins with laws about divorce and marriage, protecting women from exploitation.
Moses then continues with laws relating to sojourners, children without fathers, and widows. Sojourners are people who are living somewhere or are not native to an area. These laws served in part to protect people who may be taken advantage of.
The Lord instructs His people to provide for the needs of one another. These chapters end with a reminder of how Amalek attacked the people of God at their weak points. Moses reminds the people that the Lord their God will take care of them.
“And Pilate said to them, ‘Why? What evil has he done?’ But they shouted all the more, ‘Crucify him.’” - Mark 15:14
Because the Sanhedrin did not have the authority to perform executions, they deliver Jesus to Pilate, the Roman governor, to die. Jesus’ visit to Pilate includes questioning, beating, and the order for Him to be crucified. Pilate questions the crowd demanding Jesus’ crucifixion. “Why? What evil has he done?”
He had done no evil. There was no fault in Jesus. Only He could be the sacrifice for the sins of all people. Barrabas is a picture of every person, guilty of sin but released, covered by Jesus’ sacrifice.
Jesus is mocked by the Romans who sarcastically proclaim him the "King of the Jews." As Jesus endures suffering at the hand of his enemies, He does so to fulfill Scripture and forgive sins.
Make It Personal
- What opportunities do you have to serve people in need? How are you showing Jesus’ love to others?
- Jesus died to pay the penalty for your sin. As you pray today, thank Him for his sacrifice, and ask Him for the strength to forgive others as you have been forgiven.